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Sha’Carri Richardson is the fastest woman on the planet, but she’s willingly slowing down in this current phase of her life.The last several months have been electric for the Texas native. She etched her name into history books at the 2024 Paris Olympics with an emphatic 4×100-meter relay gold medal win alongside Olympians Gabby Thomas, Twanisha Terry and Melissa Jefferson. Richardson also took home a silver medal in the women’s 100-meter race.

 

Then, in February, she appeared in Nike’s “So Win” Super Bowl commercial, alongside other powerful athletes, including Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Las Vegas Aces forward A’ja Wilson.

Richardson kept going, and months later, she was cruising the 2025 Met Gala carpet. With so much happening on and off the track, it would be easy to assume that the 25-year-old might consider slowing down at some point and privately giving herself grace. However, she says grace isn’t quite what she had in mind.

 

“I have to give myself patience of actually committing to slowing down and understanding that slowing down is continuing to go forward,” Richardson told For The Win while promoting her partnership with Turtles. “I have to give myself a certain level of patience to slow down.”

 

For The Win recently chatted with Richardson about the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, boyfriend and fellow Olympic athlete Christian Coleman, and her viral stare down meme from last summer.

 

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

 

What’s the hardest part about slowing down when you’re not on a track?

Olympian Sha’Carri Richardson wearing a crossing guard vest while holding a “slow” sign and a megaphone for Turtles.

I would say the hardest part about having to slow down is understanding that slowing down does not take away from going forward. I would say that sometimes I feel like speed is equivalent to moving forward, and I don’t give that same energy to slowing down, processing ― seeing ― which is still the same equivalent to going forward.

 

What felt different about your 2025 Met Gala appearance versus your first one?

Sha’Carri Richardson attends the 2025 Met Gala Celebrating “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 05, 2025 in New York City.

Well, I would say between the two different experiences of the Met Gala, I felt like this time, me and my team were definitely more involved in getting everything together so I can have a great experience. The invite, the two themes within the different Met Galas, also exuded a different energy as well. I feel like the theme of this year exuded a certain level of black excellence that I truly was proud and honored to be a part of.

 

The first one was my first one. I was more nervous than anything, and so I was able to take that first experience and build off of it for the second Met Gala.

 

When you hear the term Black excellence, what does that mean to you?

Black excellence is understanding. It’s being Black, and showing a level of discipline, a certain level of commitment that is an inspiration ― that is an influence ― to anybody watching, but especially to our fellow black peers, family as well as fans. [It] shows no matter what is going on, to show up to be your full self despite, you know, history, despite adversity, and to be in the room and showing that there is no difference in what it is that we can accomplish.

 

What are the deeper, hidden messages in your iconic nail designs that most people may not pick up on?

: Sha’Carri Richardson holds her gold medal with nails after competing in the women’s 100 meter final on Day Two of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Track & Field Trials at Hayward Field on June 22, 2024 in Eugene, Oregon.

Honestly, when it comes to my nails, I feel like it’s depending on like when you’re asking. I definitely do trust my team when it comes to preparing my nails. They understand me. They understand my energy, and not just that. They understand the event itself. So, they design based off of what it is that I exude.

 

I’m saying the deeper message is, if anything, no matter what the design is, the relationships and my nails comes from the beautiful women within my family that have always shown me nail art from a young girl, like me being a little girl. So, I would say the deeper messages is a relationship to the women in my family, and also, I trust my team to create art every single time.

 

Are you looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, or is it too soon to do that?

Sha’Carri Richardson of Team United States competes during the Women’s 100m Semi-Final on day eight of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de France on August 03, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

No, it’s never too soon to look forward to L.A. Olympics. I feel like being a track and field athlete, we don’t just show up for the Olympics. We have world championships. We have other meets that happen every other year as well, besides every four years.

 

So, right now I’m looking forward to world championships in Tokyo as the reigning world champion in the 100 in September, and as well as from there, definitely building off of that momentum to go to 2028, and continue to represent myself, hard work, my team and of course, my country team USA.

 

What does it mean to you to have USA across your chest while potentially competing stateside?

To have the brand Team USA across my chest represents a level of pride ― that I am as a Black woman, knowing that where I come from ― [which] continues to represent a certain level of resilience that my I am my ancestors wildest dreams, and I will continue to, you know, open that door up to anybody that feels like that door has been closed on them.

 

As well as wearing Team USA across my chest, it represents a country that is always gonna show up and show out. Always gonna put their best foot forward. Always is going to know that, “Hey, if you see me, you know that I’m working to be the best. I trained to be the best, and there’s not an option but to go out there, and no matter what happens, but to be the best.”

 

If you weren’t a track and field athlete, what other sport would you be known for?

A softball glove with softballs is pictured before Game 1 of the Women’s College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.

I would say I would probably end up being a dancer. I know this sounds very like south field. I wouldn’t say basketball cause I’m not tall at all, and I run too fast for the ball that’s why I stopped playing. Actually, no, I would probably either be a dancer or play softball.

 

Who is a fellow athlete that deserves more recognition?

TOKYO, JAPAN – MAY 18: Christian Coleman of of the United States of America competes in the Men’s 100m final during the Seiko Golden Grand Prix at National Stadium on May 18, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Kenta Harada/Getty Images)

I would say Christian Coleman. And I would say Christian Coleman, due to the fact that he has shown up and done things that other male U.S. track and field athletes have not been able to do in such a long time. He continues to show up and represent himself, Team USA, Nike.

 

As well as his just journey of always persevering and being known as the best … but not even just the best starter, but also showing a level of commitment to track and field that is missed by a lot of individuals that are quote unquote in the sport right now.

 

What was your reaction to seeing your gold medal win in the 4×100-meter relay at the Paris Olympics become a meme?

Honestly, I did not have a reaction to seeing that because I did it. [chuckles] … When people ask, like, “Where did that come from?” it literally was just an energy that honestly took a life of it’s own. Like, no matter what, again going back to whenever I’m on the track, leaving everything on the track. So, I feel like that’s what it was.

 

My energy just overcame my body. I was still running, but my energy definitely had a much powerful presence and definitely had to just examine, you know, what was going on around because of the fact of, no, nothing physical was going to stop me.

 

Kenyan middle-distance sensation Emmanuel Wanyonyi clinched his first-ever Diamond League victory in Oslo, marking a major milestone in his rising athletic career. The 19-year-old stunned a competitive field in the men’s 800 meters at the Bislett Games, delivering a tactically mature and powerful performance that confirmed his place among the sport’s elite.

 

Running against a seasoned group of global competitors, Wanyonyi demonstrated both composure and grit. He clocked a personal best of 1:43.65, edging out strong rivals with a thrilling sprint finish in the final stretch. This win not only earned him his maiden Diamond League title but also reaffirmed his status as one of the most promising talents in middle-distance running today.

 

The victory is particularly significant for Wanyonyi, who burst onto the international stage in 2021 by winning the World U20 Championships in Nairobi. Since then, he has shown consistent growth, narrowly missing out on a podium finish at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest in 2023, where he placed fourth. In Oslo, however, everything came together — strategy, form, and finishing speed — resulting in a well-deserved breakthrough.

 

Speaking after the race, Wanyonyi expressed his excitement and relief. “I’ve been waiting for this moment,” he said. “Winning here in Oslo against such a strong field means a lot. I’ve been working hard with my coaches and teammates, and today it paid off.”

 

The Oslo meet, part of the prestigious Wanda Diamond League series, is known for its fast track and electrifying atmosphere, and Wanyonyi rose to the occasion. He stayed tucked behind the pacemaker through the first 400 meters, before accelerating in the final 200, displaying the tactical sharpness often seen in more experienced athletes.

 

His win also extends Kenya’s storied legacy in the 800 meters, a distance long dominated by legends like David Rudisha and Wilson Kipketer. Observers are now drawing comparisons between Wanyonyi and some of these greats, especially in how he balances raw speed with tactical awareness.

 

With the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games just behind him, Wanyonyi’s victory in Oslo comes at a crucial time. It provides momentum and confidence heading into the busy summer season and sets the stage for potentially more podium finishes at major global meets.

 

Athletics analysts believe that if Wanyonyi continues on his current trajectory, he could become the next dominant force in men’s 800m running. His youthful energy, combined with increasing international experience, makes him a strong medal contender in any competition he enters.

 

As the Diamond League series progresses, fans will be eager to see if Oslo marks the beginning of a winning streak for Wanyonyi. One thing is clear: the Kenyan teenager is no longer just a rising star — he’s a serious contender on the world stage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Julien Alfred’s remarkable victory in the women’s 100 meters at the Oslo leg of the Wanda Diamond League has not only reinforced her status as one of the brightest stars in track and field but also sparked a powerful reflection: “I can be a role model like Usain.” This statement, made after crossing the finish line in a blistering 10.85 seconds, is as significant as the win itself. It points to Alfred’s ambition to be more than just a fast sprinter — she wants to be an inspiration.

 

Hailing from the small Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia, Alfred has steadily emerged as a dominant force in women’s sprinting. Her triumph in Oslo adds to an already impressive 2025 season, as she continues to consistently clock sub-11-second times. But beyond times and medals, it’s the deeper meaning of her rise that resonates with fans — especially from smaller nations who rarely see their flag on the global athletics stage.

 

Alfred’s post-race comments highlight the weight of representation. “Usain Bolt showed the world that someone from a small island can dominate the sport and become a global icon,” she said. “I want to show young girls — not just in Saint Lucia, but everywhere — that they can do the same.”

 

Usain Bolt, the legendary Jamaican sprinter, transformed the sport with his electrifying performances and magnetic personality. But his legacy is also about what he symbolized: the possibility of greatness emerging from unexpected places. Alfred sees that same potential within herself. Like Bolt, she is aware that speed alone doesn’t make a role model — attitude, consistency, and connection with fans matter just as much.

 

The Oslo win is a testament to her dedication and growth. After a stellar collegiate career at the University of Texas, where she dominated the NCAA sprint circuit, Alfred has transitioned seamlessly into the professional arena. Her technique, drive, and composure under pressure have matured. In Oslo, she faced a strong field, including world and Olympic medalists, but from the gun to the finish line, she was in control.

 

Julien’s impact is already rippling beyond the track. In Saint Lucia, where resources for elite athletes are limited, her success has energized a new generation. Social media lit up after her Oslo victory, with messages from aspiring runners and proud Saint Lucians celebrating their champion. Schools replayed her race in assemblies. Her name is becoming synonymous with belief — belief that you don’t need to come from a traditional powerhouse to be world-class.

 

Still just 23, Alfred’s career is only beginning. The Paris Olympics loom large, and she is shaping up to be a genuine medal contender. But as she noted in her post-race interview, “It’s not just about winning races. It’s about showing people what’s possible.”

 

By channeling Usain Bolt’s trailblazing spirit — and adding her own quiet strength and elegance — Julien Alfred is carving a path uniquely her own. Oslo was more than a win; it was a statement. And with every stride, she is not just chasing titles — she’s becoming a symbol of possibility.

 

 

 

 

Julien Alfred launched her 2025 campaign in electrifying fashion, storming to victory in the women’s 100m at the Oslo leg of the Wanda Diamond League on Thursday evening. The Saint Lucian sprint star, known for her lightning starts and technical consistency, left no doubt about her form as she blazed down the track in a commanding display that sets the tone for the season ahead.

 

Running out of lane four in cool Nordic conditions, Alfred clocked a time of 10.85 seconds, comfortably ahead of a competitive field that included several of her season-long rivals. The win marked her first 100m race of the outdoor season and affirmed her status as a top contender in a year building towards the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo later this summer.

 

“It feels great to open with a win,” Alfred said after the race. “This was about shaking off the rust, staying relaxed, and executing my phases. I’m happy with the time and even happier with how it felt.”

 

The 23-year-old, who rose to international prominence through her NCAA dominance at the University of Texas, is now clearly transitioning into one of the global faces of women’s sprinting. Following a 2024 season that saw her win her first Diamond League race and make the Olympic final in Paris, Alfred appears to be taking another step forward.

 

From the gun in Oslo, she was sharp. Her reaction time was among the fastest in the field, and by 30 meters she had already separated herself. While others scrambled to maintain their form over the final meters, Alfred surged ahead with characteristic efficiency, crossing the line with minimal resistance.

 

Behind her, American sprinter Tamari Davis finished second in 10.98 seconds, followed by Britain’s Daryll Neita, who posted 11.02. Both athletes praised Alfred’s performance, acknowledging the pressure she placed on the field with her explosive start.

 

“She’s so quick out of the blocks,” said Neita. “You’re already chasing by 20 meters, and she doesn’t give you a chance to catch her.”

 

Alfred’s win in Oslo not only positions her well in the Diamond League standings, but also serves as a psychological boost ahead of a crowded 2025 summer schedule. She is expected to appear in several more Diamond League meets, with fans and analysts anticipating potential showdowns against the likes of Shericka Jackson, Sha’Carri Richardson, and Dina Asher-Smith in the coming weeks.

 

“I’m focused on staying healthy and consistent,” Alfred noted. “The big races are still ahead, but tonight was a great start. I’m just enjoying the process.”

 

With her mixture of raw speed, calm maturity, and ever-improving execution, Julien Alfred continues to emerge as one of the most dangerous sprinters on the international stage. Her Oslo win is more than just a race victory—it’s a statement that she’s ready to challenge for global gold.

 

As the Diamond League circuit rolls on to Stockholm, all eyes will be on Alfred to see whether this early-season momentum will carry into the summer’s marquee events. If her Oslo performance is any indication, the sprint world had better be ready.

 

 

 

 

 

Kishane Thompson obliterated a field that included Oblique Seville to win the 100 meters at the Racers Grand Prix last weekend, but Gatlin feels he still has to add something to finally beat the likes of Noah Lyles and Akani Simbine.

American sprint legend Justin Gatlin has sent crucial advice to Kishane Thompson on what he must do if he is to finally cement his status as the new king of 100 meter sprinting.

 

Thompson produced an emphatic run to win the men’s 100m in 9.88 (0.0m/s) at the Racers Grand Prix, a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting, in Kingston, Jamaica, on Saturday (7 June).

 

Thompson, drawn in lane four, reacted quickly to the starter’s gun and pulled away from the field at the midway mark. His compatriot Oblique Seville finished with a flourish to clinch second place in a season’s best of 9.97 ahead of the South African pair of Gift Leotlela (10.04) and world U20 champion Bayanda Walaza (10.06).

 

 

“Today, I put together a decent race,” said Thompson, who registered a season’s best. “I went through my phases as best as I could, and I’m super grateful for finishing injury-free. I want everyone to be patient because great things are going to happen.”

 

 

Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson

While the win confirmed Thompson’s immense potential, Gatlin—a former Olympic champion and multiple World Championship medallist—believes the 23-year-old must take one more key step to reach the pinnacle of global sprinting: race more consistently outside Jamaica.

 

“You always get plus-10 points when you run fast at home—it’s your comfort zone, your turf,” said Gatlin on his Ready Set Go podcast.

 

“But I want to see Kishane string more races together. That’s what’s really going to matter in the long run. You don’t want to get to Nationals or World Championships and have to grind through tough rounds just to make the final.”

 

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“That 9.88 definitely quieted a lot of people who were asking: ‘Where’s he at? Why isn’t he racing? Is he hurt? Is he ducking?’ He proved to everyone: ‘I’m walking my own path, and when I show up, I’ll be ready.’”

 

Gatlin also referenced Thompson’s near-miss in a major championship final—where the Jamaican missed out on Olympic gold by the slimmest of margins—as a learning point that underlines the importance of experience and consistency under pressure.

 

“Last year, he showed he’s a force—silver by just a hundredth of a second, and a lot of people thought he even had the gold. But the field is deeper now. There are more players in the game—from Akani Simbine, to guys like Jordan Anthony if he turns pro.”

 

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“These guys aren’t afraid to run fast, and they’ll be coming at him from every angle. For Kishane, it’s about navigating the rounds and showing he can be just as sharp in the final. That’s when it counts most.”

 

As the countdown to the Tokyo World Championships continue, all eyes will be on whether Thompson embraces this next phase of his journey—competing more globally, building race rhythm, and peaking when it matters most.